Well, it’s almost time to turn the page of the calendar to November, so today I’m sharing my answers to Patty and Holly’s fun end of the month link up.
This month’s topic is Thanksgiving prep.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. We get to see family, enjoy great food, and don’t have the stress of gift giving!
1. What are your Thanksgiving plans?
We typically alternate staying home vs. going to KC for Thanksgiving. This year is a KC Thanksgiving year.
I love green bean casserole at Thanksgiving. I always just use the classic recipe on the side of the French’s fried onion container.
I also love corn casserole, but I tried to make it once, and it was a fail. I will leave it to the Thanksgiving pros (AKA my sister-in-law and/or Trav’s aunts)!
3. Best food prep tips?
I’ve really only hosted Thanksgiving a time or two, and it’s so much work. I’m really grateful for those who have hosted through the years.
Of course, making a list is always helpful, and asking others to bring some of the food is essential too.
4. Favorite Thanksgiving traditions?
I love starting my Thanksgiving morning with the Macy’s parade.
5. Turkey? Ham? Other? Both?
To me, turkey is for Thanksgiving and ham is for Easter!
6. Apple pie? Pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin pie all the way. I love my pumpkin pie served cold with a dollop of Cool Whip!
7. Football or family movie?
There’s typically football on in the background while everyone hangs out and eats at Thanksgiving. Christmas movies start the Friday after Thanksgiving.
8. Stuffing or dressing?
It’s the same thing, right? But…one is inside the bird and one is out?! I definitely don’t like stuffing, but I’ve made sausage dressing a time or two, and I really like it.
9. Turkey trot or Thanksgiving parade?
Thanksgiving parade all the way.
10. Have you ever done Friendsgiving?
Our neighbors hosted a Friendsgiving a few years ago, and it was so nice to get together. That being said, the month of November about takes me out every year with Travis working so much, the kids’ activities and birthday, holiday travel, gift buying and more. So, it’s hard to find the time, at this stage of life, to do some of the extra fun things like Friendsgiving.
Thanksgiving always has been one of my favorite holidays. What’s your favorite part of Thanksgiving?
Well, where has this month gone? It’s already time for Monthly Musings.
Today, I’m sharing my answers to Patty and Holly ‘s fun monthly link up.
This month’s topic is Fall/Halloween Fun…
It really is starting to feel like fall around here (at least in the mornings and evenings)…and we finally got some rain yesterday! Hallelujah!
I love writing posts “all about fall,” so this topic is definitely for me!
1. Favorite fall traditions
We love going to UK football games and Keeneland. The pumpkin patch is always the highlight of autumn for me. The kids have been able to carve their own pumpkins for a few years now, and that’s a major milestone. haha
2. How do you celebrate Halloween?
For years and years, we’d trick-or-treat with the same group of friends. As the kids have gotten older, everyone now kind of does their own thing now.
I still try to have a “spooky” dinner a day or two before Halloween.
Last year, was the first year since 2009 that Travis and I were back sitting on the front porch passing out candy rather than walking around with our kids while they trick-or-treated.
They still have so much fun with their friends.
3. Favorite fall recipes?
I make Pumpkin Sausage Penne pasta a few times during the fall season
Of course, we love to bake –pumpkin pie, pumpkin cookies, and pumpkin muffins!
I did try a new recipe this past weekend…Apple Cider Donut Cake was a hit with the fam! I will definitely make this again soon!
4. Favorite fall fashion pieces?
I love when it’s sweater/cardigan weather. I needed to replace the black cardigan that I’ve had for years, so I ordered my favorite Amazon cardigan (again!) in black. I now have it in three colors.
5. How do you decorate for fall?
Pumpkins & candles…obviously!
6. Pumpkin spice?
Sure! I love pumpkin muffins and pumpkin bread. I don’t do Pumpkin Spice Lattes though…too many calories, and I don’t enjoy the taste anymore.
7. Thoughts on candy corn
I don’t mind it. Typically, I only eat it when I mix it with peanuts.
8. Favorite fall/Halloween movie?
It’s not a movie, but when the kids were little, we usually watched It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown as a family, but we haven’t watched it in a few years.
Other movies I think of and try to watch during fall are You’ve Got Mail, Sweet Home Alabama, and Hocus Pocus.
9. Apple pie, pumpkin pie or cider donut?
All of the above. That being said, I don’t know that I’ve ever made an apple pie. We tend to stick with all things pumpkin, and I can’t pass up an apple cider donut.
10. Bonfire, hayride or haunted house?
I like when we can find an evening to do a backyard fire, but it’s definitely not a bonfire. haha
Haunted house? No, ma’am.
I always love this link up. I can’t wait to read everyone’s responses.
It’s the last day of August, and I’m linking up with Patty and Holly for Monthly Musings. I love reading these posts and seeing how everyone answers these questions.
This month’s topic is Back to School…
It’s hard to believe that we’re on our third week of school already! Thankfully, I feel like we are finally getting in a groove.
1. Where do you typically shop for back to school? Any tips?
It’s changed as the kids have gotten older, but we usually go to the outlet mall at some point to get them new shoes.
While Hayden doesn’t care much about what he wears on the first day, Hadley will always say, “Yes!” to shopping. I shared about her “back to school ‘fit” a couple of weeks ago. Her favorite store is probably Aerie.
2. How do you organize for back to school?
The last couple of weeks of summer, I try to start crossing things off our “to do” list and do a little bit at a time. One day, we might get haircuts, and another day buy school supplies. Right before school starts, I have the kids get everything organized, label their folders, and make sure they have everything they need.
I also have to get my classroom organized, and I always feel so much better after I get it situated. Hadley was a big help this year.
3. Do you meal prep? Any fall recipes to share?
I meal plan more than I meal prep.
I always write our activities and dinners on the magnetic paper calendar on our fridge. Last year, I made a point to do my Kroger pickup on Saturday, so that I wasn’t scrambling on Sundays. I hope to keep that up this year too.
I also try to get our lives/activities organized using the Cozi app.
4. Any back to school traditions?
We always do a “Back to School Brinner” a night or two before school starts. Of course the morning of the first day, I take the kids’ picture.
5. How long does it take you to get in a new fall routine?
Uh…I’m still trying to get that figured out. haha
I do feel like we are getting in a bit of a routine now that we are on our third week of school. Just when we figure it out, I’m sure our evening activities will change and throw us off.
6. Best lunchbox packing tips?
Since middle school, the kids buy school lunch. That being said, Hadley requested this lunchbox this year for days when she wants to take her lunch.
I don’t really have any packing tips. When the kids were in elementary, we’d pack these Yumboxes, and Hadley still uses hers.
I do think it’s best to pack lunch the night before, and I told Hadley that needs to be her plan this year if she’s taking her lunch.
Maybe on the days that Hadley takes her lunch, she will let me put a note in her lunch like I used to in elementary school.
As for me, I do try to plan my lunches. Every week, I usually split a bagged salad with chicken over two days, take leftovers one day, pack an “adult lunchable” another day and so on. I always take fruit and then some days I bring cottage cheese, chips, etc.
7. Best tips for getting out the door in the morning?
This year, I set an alarm for when I need to leave for school. I’ve done a much better job at getting to school on time so far this year.
I try to have an idea of what I want to wear for the week just so I’m not fumbling around trying to figure that out. Often times, whatever I wear to church on Sunday, I wear to school on Monday.
8. Slow cooker? Instant Pot? Neither? Both? Recipe to share.
Some of our favorite recipes are Sloppy Joe’s, King Ranch Joe’s, and Taco Tortellini Soup.
9. School bus? Car pool? Walk to school?
When the kids were little, we’d walk to school some and they’d stay after school for childcare or a sitter would pick them up.
Once they started middle school, they started riding the bus in the morning. I pick them up from school most of the time if they don’t have practice. They mostly do something year round, but never really at the same time until track season.
Hayden doesn’t mind to ride the bus home in the afternoon, but Hadley does. haha
It pretty easily works with my schedule to pick them up, so I do what I can when I can.
10. Start school before or after Labor Day?
Before! I wish we just kept it simple with a nice long summer of Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Hope everyone is having a great back to school season.
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Today, I’m linking up with Patty and Holly for Monthly Musings. I love this link up because it’s a fun way to answer questions on a specific topic.
This month’s topic is Summer Fashion.
You know I’m no fashionista…and in the summer, I’m mostly wearing workout clothes, pjs, or swimsuit and a cover up…but here we go…
1. Favorite summer outfit?
Besides what I just mentioned above, this two piece set from Shop Style Your Senses is probably my favorite buy of the summer. It’s easy to dress up or down, and it’s super comfy.
This summer feels like the year of the romper, and while I’m not 100% sold that it’s my best look, this one is a go to and easy to wear.
I recently ordered this light-weight cap sleeve sweater, and I love it. It’s an Amazon find, and I wore it two times in Florida with denim shorts.
This week, I remembered these black shorts I bought from SSYS in the spring, and I think it’s a “nicer” look for dinner out.
2. Favorite summer footware?
I truly haven’t changed up my sandals much in the past few summers.
Then, I mix in the rose gold Amazon slides or gold sandals. I still love the braided heeled sandals I ordered last summer if I need a dressier look. The comfort slides that I’ve had for a few years are still the sandals I wear the most to the pool. (I sized up one size in both Amazon sandals, and half a size in the braided heels)
3. What summer accessories are you wearing on repeat?
I don’t really change up my accessories…I’m still wearing my same bracelets from Daily Gold Co (I never take them off) as well as my Amazon bracelets too.
My favorite pool accessories are this bag from Walmart (I even used it as my carry-on for our Florida vacay…and then used it for the beach)
I have this SSYS swim cover up that I love…
…as well as my favorite one from Amazon that I have in light blue and navy. I picked up both of these last summer, and continue to love them.
4. What do you use for a summer bag?
Like my sandals, I haven’t really changed my bags up either. Again, I love the “summer” Walmart bag for my pool bag.
Then, most days I’m wearing this black cross body, but also brought the quilted belt bag on vacation when I dressed up a bit more but still casual.
I also use this cross body too when I’m a little more put together/less “mom mode.”
5. What summer scents are you wearing?
I also, don’t change my perfume seasonally. I always prefer something light and refreshing. For Christmas, Travis got me Perfect and Daisy Dream by Marc Jacobs as well as Juliette has a Gun, and I still love all three.
6. Maxi dress, romper or jumpsuit?
Besides the pink romper above, I also wear the long version too.
7. Favorite summer sunglasses?
I wear this pair almost daily, but they cracked in my bag on vacation.
Hadley still loves the pair she got earlier this summer…
I also love my Quay sunglasses that I got a couple of years ago and wear them often. I wore them to the pool yesterday!
8. Favorite summer pjs?
Hands down my favorite summer pjs are the gauzy pink ones I found at Target last summer. This summer, I bought them again in gray and turquoise.
How’s your week going? We’ve had a good one with a mix of productivity and fun.
Today, I’m linking up with Patty and Holly for Monthly Musings.
This month’s topic is Summer Fun: Vacay, Trips, and Adventures
1. Favorite vacation destinations
I’ve loved quite a few places that we’ve traveled for vacation: Charleston, Mexico, and San Diego to name a few, but my favorite is Siesta Key, Florida. We’ve been there the most, so my kids are probably the most familiar with SK. We always look forward to a trip there.
2. Best packing tips
For this month’s Let’s Lookpost, I shared some travel tips, and some of those tips included packing tips. I’d say my top tips are to make needed purchases a couple of weeks out, make a packing list (and now the kids get a list too), replenish travel items as they run out, and use packing cubes.
3. Road Trips or Fly?
We tend to do a bit of both. I guess we road trip more than we fly, but we do occasionally fly. Most of the time, it just makes the most sense to drive wherever we go. Even when we go to KC, which is a nine hour drive, if we were to fly, we’d have to be at the airport an hour beforehand, have a layover, and then KC’s airport is about 45 minutes from where my parents live.
That being said, it is always fun to see the clouds and down below during a flight.
4. Favorite vacation memory as a child?
We didn’t go on tons of vacations when I was a kid. That being said, when we did go on vacation, it was usually a bigger one. Growing up, my parents took us to California twice, Minnesota, and a trip to the northeast where we went to Massachusetts, Delaware, and Maine.
I’d say my favorite memory was going to Disneyland the first time we went to California which was the summer before 6th grade. My aunt and uncle lived in Orange County, and we visited them after they moved there from KC. My cousins who lived in Chicago also visited at the same time, and it was so fun going to Disneyland with everyone. My souvenir was a Mickey pin with my name on it.
5. Ocean, Lake, or Mountains?
For vacation, I’m a beach girl. I don’t necessarily love the ocean, but I love going to the beach. The lake is fun too!
6. Campout or indoor grills?
I don’t grill…and I hate smelling like smoke after a campfire…I’m so much fun. haha
When we went “glamping” for fall break one year, it was fun to make our dinner on the fire…but my thing with camping (and even glamping) is that so much preparation goes in to everything.
7. Favorite summer cocktail or mocktail?
I love a skinny margarita in the summer…
This summer, a cocktail I’ve had a couple of times (after a friend suggested it) is just vodka soda with a splash of grapefruit and lime. That’s an easy one to make a “mocktail” too.
8. Most amazing travel upgrade story?
I can’t say that I have one…
In 2018, we traveled to California for Trav’s work and the Del Mar racecourse was paying for his hotel. They made our reservation at the L’Auberge Del Mar, and it was sooo nice. We’ve been back to California since and stayed at other perfectly nice hotels, but that one was such a treat.
9. Ice cream or popsicle?
Ice cream is definitely a summertime fave.
10. Do you camp?
No.
I’m not saying I absolutely wouldn’t again, but I’ve always said I don’t mind being outside from sunrise to sundown, hiking, and making s’mores…but then I prefer to go back to the Marriott for a nice shower and a comfy bed.
We went glamping for fall break a few years ago, and it was fun.
In a recent post, I shared a story about the one and only time Travis and I went camping…I was younger and in the “honeymoon phase” of a new relationship…lol
This is always such a fun link up. I’m glad that summer is in full swing!
Some months I feel like they seem to fly by, but May sure felt like it lasted forever! That being said, I can’t believe this time next week it will be June! Since it’s the last Thursday of the month, Holly and Patty are hosting their Monthly Musings link up.
This month’s topic is: Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend
Ahh…one of my favorite weekends of the year. Of course Memorial Day has significant meaning as we honor those who lost their lives serving our country.
Memorial Day Celebration with American Flag on background. Text “Memorial Day – Remember and Honor”
It’s also the start of summer. The pool opens, alarm clocks can be turned off, grills are turned on, and everyone can enjoy the warm summer sunshine.
1. How are you spending Memorial Day weekend?
Well, tomorrow is the last day of school…and usually I’d be in my pjs by 7:00, but our friends invited us over to grill out/hang on their patio. Saturday, we’ll spend the day at the state middle school track meet. Sunday and Monday we don’t have any official plans, and by that time, I’m sure I’ll be ready to relax. Our pool opened yesterday. We’ve had beautiful weather this week, but it’s only supposed to be mid-70’s the next few days. I’m sure the kids (especially Hadley) will head to the pool Sunday/Monday. I will probably go for a bit as well at some point.
2. Favorite ice cream?
My favorite ice cream is mint chocolate chip!
3. Memorial Day travel or hanging out at home?
We never travel for Memorial Day…it’s always too close to the end of the school year. So, we will be at home when not at the track meet.
4. Burger? Hot dog? or both?
I love a good hot dog. We actually went out to dinner last Friday to a local spot, and I ordered a hot dog with cheese and pickle. It was so good.
There’s another local place called Boonedogs that we’ve been to a time or two, and it’s good as well.
5. Favorite cookout sides?
I love a good pasta salad. I made Shay’s Pepperoni & Bell Pepper Pasta Saladrecipe this past weekend, and it’s really good.
This one I found on Pinterest years ago is one I make often as well.
6. White before or after Memorial Day?
For me, I typically wait until after Memorial Day…but that’s not because I’m trying to follow any fashion rule. I prefer to be tan before wearing white. I did wear my white jeans to school yesterday with a bright pink top…but I also made a visit to the Sun Tan City spray tan booth this past weekend.
7. Memorial Day traditions?
We don’t really have any Memorial Day traditions…not like we we seem to have for the 4th of July.
As a kid, I remember my extended family getting together for Memorial Day, the 4th of July, and Labor Day weekends.
I joke that there are two kinds of Memorial Day weekend people…those who do yardwork, and those who go to the pool. Guess which one I’m married to! Plus, since I know I will have pool time in the summer, I’m not rushing to go over Memorial Day weekend when it’s so crowded.
It does seem like most years we grill out with neighbors at some point and go to the pool for a bit.
8. Share a summer recipe.
This Asparagus Fries recipe I found on Pinterest years ago, is a winner. My whole family loves them. This weekend, Travis picked up chicken to grill and came home with asparagus too. He requested this as a side. It’s one of Hadley’s favorites as well.
9. Parades, fireworks or cookouts?
Cook out and pool!
10. Show us your red, white, and blue…
For the patriotic holidays, I always put out a few flags…
…and I miss the days of the kids *willingly* wearing red, white, and blue…but how festive is Homer?
What are your Memorial Day weekend plans? Our weather looks amazing. I’m definitely ready for the weekend!
Since this month is wrapping up, it’s time for Patty and Holly’sMonthly Musing link up.
This month’s topic is: All About Spring
We’ve hit a cold snap this week, but thankfully the sun has been shining. I know spring weather is fickle, but I much prefer the warmer days!
1. Favorite spring fashion pieces?
Whenever this topic is asked, I always share a cardigan. Cardigans…it’s “giving” teacher fashion. When the weather starts to turn warmer, I start wearing cardigans over my dresses.
2. Favorite spring scent?
I love candles, and we always have at least one burning in the house. I always choose “lighter/fresher” scents like citrus and floral.
3. Go to spring meals?
Well, we’re so busy in the spring, I feel like I’m using my slower cooker still quite a bit. That being said, it’s always great when we can start grilling out! It’s just nice to have chicken or burgers and hot dogs and then serve quick and easy sides like baked beans, fruit, or pasta salad.
4. Spring dessert recipe
The first thing that popped in my mind is strawberry shortcake. We probably do eat that more in the summer though. I did make Shay’sFruity Pebbles Nieman Marcus bars recently, and they were delish.
5. Spring traditions
Some favorite spring traditions are dyeing Easter eggs, going to Keeneland, and watching the Oaks and Derby.
6. Spring cleaning hack
Lauren shared about decluttering and getting rid of something (trash or donate) and the number correlates with the day of the month. I started a bit late in April, but I did spend at least a week being intentional with going through junk drawers, random drawers I rarely open, my closet, the kids’ closets, the basement, and more. I still need to go through my dresser drawers and a few things in the garage, but at least I made the effort to “spring clean” a bit.
7. Will you plant a garden this year?
I’m not sure if we will or not. Anything in the yard is Trav’s domain. We’ve only done a garden a few times, but we’ll see.
8. Spring rain…love or hate?
I love a rainy Saturday or Sunday when there are no plans. I joke that it gives me “permission to be lazy.” If it’s raining, I can sleep in and do things around the house. That being said, of course, I hate when we have outdoor plans and it rains. For example, the kids have an outside field trip today that’s TBD due to the rain. I’m worried that tomorrow night’s track meet will be in yet another torrential downpour.
9. Favorite spring flower?
I always love when Trader Joe’s has their peonies in late spring/early summer.
10. Any spring travel plans?
Well, we already did our spring travelling when we went to Greenville, SC earlier this month. We loved it.
We don’t have any other travel plans for this spring. As a matter of fact, we still haven’t planned summer vacation yet!
This link up is always a fun one. I can’t wait to see what other people have to say.
I love that Patty and Holly host this fun link up. I feel like it always has me thinking/planning ahead for the next season or holiday.
This month’s topic is: Essential Spring Fashion Pieces
Anytime there is the word “fashion” in the topic, I’m hesitant to post. I don’t know much about fashion… haha…but here are some of my ideas.
1. How do you transition your wardrobe?
I usually transition my (school) wardrobe by wearing dresses and throwing on a cardigan to wear to school. I love a dress…and I love a cardigan, so spring and fall are my favorite times to dress for school.
2. Favorite spring item?
I loved this cardigan so much that I bought it in two colors last year.
3. Favorite spring footwear?
Once the weather warms up and the sun starts shining, I really can’t wait for sandal weather.
Amazon has provided some of my favorite footwear over the past couple of years like these Birk dupes and a couple pairs of slides.
Also, I can’t wait to wear my Birks that I purchased from Nordstrom at the end of last summer. I wore them for as long as possible last fall.
4. Favorite colors you wear in the spring?
I will be the first to admit that I don’t gravitate towards tons of color, but I do love pink in the spring…and the summer (when I’m tan!)
Blue and purple are other favorite colors to wear in the warmer months.
5. Favorite spring accessory?
I don’t change my jewelry much at all. Spring and summer are the perfect time to wear a statement earring, but if I’m not wearing my regular stud earrings, then I’m probably “dressing up” with a gold hoop.
I’m still loving my bracelet stack which is a mix of Daily Gold Co and Amazon.
6. Ways to add spring to your outfit when the weather doesn’t cooperate?
Throw on a bright pink cardigan and go!
7. Do you change up your makeup routine in the spring?
Kind of link with jewelry, I don’t change much. Basically, I just change my foundation as I get more color in my face. I still love Seint makeup, and I’ve been wearing the “Amber” shade highlight in the winter, and soon it will be time to switch to “Mango.”
During/after spring break, I will start using my Jergens “Instant Sun,” and I’ve already started adding in the L’Oreal Sublime Bronze drops into my face moisturizer at night and am starting to see a bit more color.
Really, I can’t wait for summer as I rarely wear makeup…and I like to be tan!
8. Puff sleeve trend. Yes or no?
I’m not against a puff sleeve, and I’ve seen a few cute options. That being said, apparently I love a “flutter” sleeve right now.
9. Do you change up your mani/pedi colors in the spring?
I’m pretty traditional with my mani color. I pretty consistently wear some version of pink all year long. That being said, in the fall and winter, I will try darker colored nail polish.
Once spring hits, I lock in with Funny Bunny or Bubble Bath for my SNS. In the summer, I usually try dark pink or a turquoise for my pedi color. I hope to cash in a gift card over break and get a pedi.
10. Favorite spring tote?
I carry a smaller purse in the spring/summer. My gold cross body is a fave, and I like that I can switch out the strap to change it up.
While I still love this one that I got last year for when I’m more dressed up:
I did just purchase this saddle/boho purse, and I’m excited to try it.
I wanted to have another crossbody option that is a little bigger and more everyday. I actually ordered a few to try, and this one was my fave by far (and less than $20!)
So, now I feel like I have a small, medium, and larger version of a crossbody for the spring/summer months.
Ahh…I didn’t think I’d have much to add to this topic, but I was able to share a bit about some of my favorite spring fashion items.
On my “to do” list over break is to pull items from my closet that I didn’t wear this winter in order to tidy things up a bit before summer.
See you back here tomorrow for Friday Faves.
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Wow! February is almost over. I know it’s a shorter month, but I feel like it’s flown by.
Since it’s the end of the month, I’m linking up with Patty and Holly for Monthly Musings.
This month’s topic is: warm weather destinations/winter travel tips
First of all…I wish I was able to travel somewhere warm in the winter. 😆
So, most of these are just my general travel answers.
1. Favorite warm weather destination
The first place that always pops in my mind is Siesta Key, Florida. It will probably always be my family’s favorite even though we haven’t been for a couple of years. I also love Isle of Palms, SC and San Diego. Even if we don’t go to SK, we at least see the ocean once a year…and maybe more if we are lucky.
2. Packing cubes: yes or no?
Yes! I love packing cubes, and have used them for a few years. I always use them, the kids sometimes do, and Travis never does. This is also the same order of the one who overpacks the most to the least! The kids usually use one to hold socks, underwear, pjs, and swimsuits. I use them for everything.
3. Favorite carry on?
I picked up this bag from Target about a year ago, and it’s my #1 carry on bag. It’s a “weekender” bag, so it’s what I pack for overnight trips as well. Also, it comes in a few other colors.
4. Essential items in your suitcase?
Well, everything goes in my suitcase. I’d say the packing cubes are essential because they keep me organized and squish all my belongings to make room for more!
5. Excursions? Yes or no? Share your favorites.
I really think in all of our vacations, we’ve only been on one excursion…and that was this summer when we went to Mexico. We spent a day on a boat with a stop at Isla Mujeres. We all had a great time.
6. Most random item you always pack?
I do not leave home without my sound machine. I need white noise. In a pinch, I’ve use an app on my phone, but it’s not the same. If we are all staying in one room, we just bring one sound machine. That being said, if we have the kids in one room and us in another, we’ll bring two. Hadley loves a sound machine as well. While my preference is “white noise,” hers is “ocean waves.”
7. Do you use a travel agent?
The only time we’ve used a travel agent was for our Mexico trip. Otherwise, Travis White is my travel agent.
8. Favorite sunscreen?
As much time as we spend at the pool and the beach, I do make sure we use sunscreen. I’m not super loyal to any brand, but these two are typically in my pool bag. The stick is perfect for our faces and the spray is easy to apply. Actually, both are easy to apply, so the kids know to come reapply every other time the pool break whistle blows!
9. Flip flops or sandals?
I’ve been wearing these Havaianas flip flops for years. I have them in rose gold and grey.
Last summer, I splurged on these big buckle Birks from Nordstrom. I absolutely love and them and have zero regrets.
That being said, both Hadley and I have been wearing these Amazon Birk dupes for the past few summers. She has them in white, and I have them in rose gold. I wear them often as does she. As a matter of fact, I think I purchased Hadley’s three summers ago, and I did tell her I’d get her another pair this summer…as her foot has grown a bit, and she’s worn them to the ground!
10. Favorite swimsuit?
I bought this Amazon swimsuit in two patterns a couple of summers ago. I still turn to them more than any other swimsuit.
I never think about ordering swimsuits in February, so I hope it’s still available when I decide to give it a try.
other thoughts…
This post got me thinking …about vacations. When I was a kid, we didn’t go on many family vacations. When we did, we went on bigger ones to the west coast, the northeastern states, Minnesota, etc. We did go to the Lake of the Ozarks quite a bit though.
Also, when I was in school, we didn’t have a fall break. Even when I first started teaching in Missouri, I think we only got Columbus Day off in October. Also, while we did get a spring break when I was in school, I’m pretty certain it wasn’t a week. I think it usually fell around Easter. Of course, times were different. Travel, overall, is more convenient. Also, obviously, it’s a longer drive to the beach in Missouri as opposed to Kentucky.
My kids now go on at least three vacations/trips a year. While I’m not saying they are ungrateful about that, but more…it’s all they know.
In all my years teaching, I’ve never really had the desire to go anywhere for spring break. Of course, I’m a home body, but from March – May, I just feel like I’m in survival mode…and I like nothing better than a few days at home with not much to do. I also like to take that time to do things we don’t usually have time to do like go to the movies, go for a hike, sit on a patio at a restaurant and enjoy dinner at a leisurely pace and more!
Fall break was typically only a few days, so we usually would just go to Asheville for a couple of days. Then, for spring break, we usually go somewhere for a few days. Spring break is when we try to branch out and go somewhere different but within driving distance. Through the years, we’ve been to Knoxville, Indianapolis, Nashville, KC (which isn’t new –but from there, Travis and I went to Las Vegas), and Asheville if we didn’t go in the fall.
Then, summer vacation is our bigger vacation. I am glad we try to take our kids to places they are both familiar with but then also places that are also new to them. I will say having a week at the beach in the fall “ruined” us because it really is the perfect time. After that vacation, Travis declared that he was never going on a vacation to somewhere hot again in the summer! Next school year, we get another week for fall break, and we plan to head to the beach again. I’m not sure what our summer vacation will be just yet.
On top of that, we try to get to KC to see my family at twice a year.
There are even some schools around here that just wrapped up a winter break last week which means they have fall, Christmas, winter, and spring breaks…and then summers off too, of course…and it seems some travel for all of those. (Of course, no shade to those people…travel is more of a priority for some…)
Sometimes, we feel the “pressure” to take so many trips every year. Who is “pressuring” us? Mostly, our kids…😂 They do like to go somewhere if possible.
Also, I try not to dwell on it, but it’s easy now to see that we really do only have about five fall/spring breaks left with our kids. Like…when did that happen?
Traveling is such a privilege that I never want my kids to take for granted. It’s a blessing we make these trips/vacations happen, but I also want my kids to feel content with staying home a bit too.
I also wish Travis and I could find the time to go somewhere just the two of us more than we do. I occasionally tag along on a work trip when he goes somewhere like California, but otherwise, being parents to two busy kids with both of us working full time really does take up most of our time.
Anyway, just sharing my thoughts.
The combination of this post and our weather lately, which has been perfect, has me wanting it to be summer ASAP.
How often do you travel? What’s your favorite vacation spot?
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I can’t believe it’s already the end of the first month of 2023! I’m so happy that Holly and Patty are continuing their Monthly Musings link up, and I’m joining them today.
This month’s topic is: beating the winter blues…
1. Something you do for yourself to beat the winter blues
With it getting darker earlier, it’s tempting for me to come home and put my pjs on! That being said, I try to keep my routine as normal as possible. When I get home, I usually give myself a few minutes and then go ahead and get my workout in.
Also, last week, for instance, the temps were so mild. After my workouts, I walked for about twenty minutes and enjoyed the sunshine while I could.
2. Something you do for your family to bring joy in the winter
Ever since the kids were little, I make snowman pancakes on the first snow day…and I still do. I just checked my stock to make sure I have pancakes and other good stuff if/when we ever get measurable snow! and…
…I try to make Valentine’s Day fun. I always pick up a few things for the kids…
…and the past couple of years, I’ve made a little Valentine’s Day lunch at some point in February.
Travis and I usually go to dinner, just the two of us, one evening around Valentine’s Day.
3. Favorite cozy items
I love an oversized sweatshirt and leggings or pj pants.
Cozy socks and/or slippers are a must! These are my new fave slippers:
…as well as my new boots. These have been perfect to wear with the colder temps!
4. Winter exercise habits or practices
I keep everything pretty much the same which means Beachbody workouts in my basement. That being said, we tend to have a few more free Saturdays in the winter (cross country, football games, etc. take up time in the fall), so I try to take advantage of that time and go to the gym on Saturdays that I have the chance.
5. Do you practice journaling or mediation?
I write this blog. haha
That’s about it. I do always try to start the day with some quiet time, and even at night before I go to sleep, I just try to calm my brain with a few quiet minutes.
6. Do you light candles or use essential oils?
I always have a candle burning if we are home. Lighting a candle is one of the first things I do when I wake up and same when I walk in the door!
7. Bedtime rituals to promote quality sleep
Y’all! I’m a high maintenance sleeper! I started using a weighted blanket a few years ago, and it’s hard to sleep without it. I’ve been using a sound machine since the kids were little. (When they were babies, they had a sound machine in their room that I could always hear through the monitor…so when I quit using the monitor, I missed the the white noise sound. So, that meant we needed one for our room.) Any app I’ve found isn’t the same, so we bring at least one sound machine with us when we travel if we can.
And…the real MVP…an Olly melatonin. The package says you can take two, but just one is all I need. I only occasionally use these, but they are legit.
8. Morning habits that help me prepare for a good day
Quiet and coffee to start my day. If I had to wake up to an alarm and hit the ground running, I wouldn’t feel ready for the day. One day during the kids early elementary years, I forgot to set an alarm. We all woke up late, had to rush to get to school, and I clearly remember feeling so frantic all day. (which I didn’t like one bit!)
I also try to know what I’m going to wear the next day, so I don’t have to think much about that. Some days I have my lunch made the night before…and some days I don’t. Obviously, it helps if I do.
9. Favorite way to spend days off in the winter?
I love a snow day!
There have been a few times when major winter weather has hit and Travis has been home. He likes to try and be productive, and I have to remind him that’s not what a snow day is about. haha
Now, there have been times when we’ve had a stretch of days off, and then we are eventually productive.
Of course, the kids love to play in the snow which is probably their favorite way to spend a winter day. We have such a great group of neighborhood friends, and they all end up getting together to sled, play in the snow and run around. Of course, that’s gotten easier on me as the kids have gotten older! Now, they bundle themselves up and head out to play…checking in when they can.
Our school plan this year is a mix of snow days and online learning days which is what we did last year too. I think that’s a good compromise considering we are 1:1 with technology, and the kids don’t have to get online with teachers. No one wants to be in school past May 31. I can promise you that!
As I’ve mentioned before, January and February tend to be slower months, so I do try to build in time on the weekend to read, watch a movie, nap, and whatever else I feel like doing. After the hustle and bustle of November and December, I feel like I deserve it.
10. Favorite winter themed movie
Well, in December, I think of Home Alone, A Christmas Story, and The Holiday.
When kids were little, we watched Frozen more times that I can count.
In the winter, I also think of Serendipity (the first movie Travis and I ever saw in a movie theater together) and Cool Runnings. That’s a family fave for sure.
This was such a fun topic to think about. It’s an unpopular opinion, but I love winter.
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